The Chinese government has reaffirmed its commitment to finance and complete two vital railway projects in Nigeria, the Abuja-Kano and Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri railway lines.
This announcement came during a bilateral meeting in Beijing between the President of the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping, and a Nigerian delegation led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu.
The statement, titled ‘At 3rd Belt and Road initiative forum: China commits to refinancing, completing Abuja-Kano, Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri railways,’ was issued by Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications.
China’s initial commitment to provide 85 percent financing for these railway projects had faced delays, primarily due to budgetary constraints and other obligations. Nigeria, responsible for the remaining 15 percent of funding, had fulfilled its financial commitment from the project’s inception through appropriations.
President Xi Jinping expressed China’s intention to increase investment in Nigeria’s power generation and digital economy sectors.
He also emphasized the importance of protecting Chinese nationals working in Nigeria and pledged to strengthen the bilateral relationship between China and Nigeria.
Xi promised not only to deepen practical cooperation but also to support President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Manifesto and his eight-point economic agenda.
He also stated that China would facilitate Nigeria’s exports, particularly in the field of peanuts.
According to him, the China-Africa talent initiative was also highlighted as a crucial element of cooperation between the two nations.
Addressing security concerns, the Chinese President committed to continued efforts to combat terrorism and ensure peace in the Sahel region. China’s ongoing military training and Memoranda of Understanding on joint exercises with Nigeria were underscored as unwavering commitments.
He said, “As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated recently at the last United Nations General Assembly, Africa does not need to run away. Africa holds the key to the World.
“We support Nigeria to play key roles in international relations and upholding allies’ commitments. Mr Vice President, you spoke about upscaling and further upgrading our strategic relationship, and I agree with you.
“Nigeria is developing with big potential. I agree with you. Our foreign Ambassadors can stay and work out this upgrading”.
